More details have been revealed on the plans to open the vast network of tunnels beneath Holborn.
We've been intrigued, for a year now, about plans to open up the old Kingsway Exchange tunnels beneath Holborn. Now the London Tunnels company has revealed new details of what we can expect to see down there.
Part of the attraction will showcase "the history of military intelligence and the military use of the tunnels", in a collaboration with the UK-based Museum of Military Intelligence.
We're told that the exhibition will feature little-known stories from D-Day, the Battle of Britain, SOE operations, Cold War espionage, and even secret details from the Falklands conflict and anti-terror operations.
General Sir Jim Hockenhull, Commander of Strategic Command and Colonel Commandant of the Intelligence Corps, gave some context: "The UK has long been at the forefront of military intelligence. Skills developed over centuries by thousands of brave, imaginative and determined men and women, have defended Britain and the world from those who threaten us. They continue to protect us today and will do so in the future, but their exciting and fascinating operations have remained hidden. It is time that, where we can, we allow our forebears to tell their story."
The Kingsway Exchange Tunnels are an appropriate location. The complex features over a mile of tunnels, dug during the Second World War at the same time as the deep-level shelters along the Northern line. The space was used as a shelter during the Blitz, but was later entirely closed to the public and used for sensitive telecommunications purposes.
The London Tunnels have secured planning permission for the venture, which hopes to attract some three million visitors per year. The attraction will contain various displays about the history of the tunnels, as well as "London's deepest licensed bar". It's not yet clear when we can expect it to open.
All images courtesy of The London Tunnels.
